Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic dish or an easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love, these Pizza Chicken Packets are sure to hit the spot! Imagine juicy chicken breasts topped with all the delicious flavors of your favorite pizza, neatly wrapped in foil and baked to perfection. This recipe is not only a breeze to make but also a creative way to satisfy those pizza cravings in a healthier, low-carb package. Let’s get cooking!
**Pizza Chicken Packets**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/4 cup sliced black olives
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Foil squares for wrapping
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Start by preparing four large squares of foil for the chicken packets. Place a chicken breast in the center of each foil square.
3. Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly to cover.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the marinara sauce on each chicken breast.
6. Top the cheese with sliced pepperoni, black olives, diced bell peppers, and red onion, distributing them equally among the chicken breasts.
7. Carefully bring together the edges of the foil to create sealed packets around each chicken breast, ensuring no openings for steam to escape.
8. Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
10. Once done, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for hot steam) and check that the chicken is fully cooked.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and aroma.
12. Serve the Pizza Chicken Packets hot, straight from the foil, allowing everyone to enjoy their own personal pizza-inspired chicken creation.
These Pizza Chicken Packets are a delightful option for a cozy dinner at home or a fun meal to enjoy outdoors during a picnic or camping trip. The best part? They’re customizable to suit your taste preferences – feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, green olives, or even pineapple. Experiment with different cheeses or sauces to create your perfect personal pizza flavor profile. The convenience of these packets also makes them a fantastic choice for meal prep ahead of time – simply assemble, wrap, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
So, the next time you’re craving pizza but want a healthier alternative without sacrificing on flavor, give these Pizza Chicken Packets a try. They’re simple, delicious, and bring all the comforting tastes of a cheesy pizza without the guilt. Enjoy the wonderful combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, savory sauce, and tasty toppings in every delightful bite. Happy cooking!
